My Time in Uganda
Uganda is a landlocked country in East Africa that offers a variety of attractions for travelers. Whether you are looking for wildlife, culture, adventure, or relaxation, Uganda has something for you. I will share some of the highlights of my recent trip to Uganda and some tips on how to make the most of your visit.
The first thing that comes to mind when you think of Uganda is probably its famous mountain gorillas. Uganda is home to half of the world’s remaining population of these endangered primates and seeing them in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I booked a gorilla trekking tour with a reputable company:- Hospitable Africa Tours and Travel, that operates in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, one of the four parks where gorillas can be found in Uganda. The trek was challenging but rewarding, as we hiked through dense forest and steep slopes to reach the gorilla family. We spent an hour observing them from a safe distance, watching them eat, play, groom, and interact with each other. It was amazing to see how human-like they are, and how each one has a distinct personality and role in the group. The gorillas were not bothered by our presence, and sometimes even came closer to us out of curiosity. It was an unforgettable experience that I will cherish forever.
Another highlight of my trip was visiting Queen Elizabeth National Park, the most popular and diverse park in Uganda. The park covers an area of almost 2,000 square kilometers and boasts a variety of ecosystems, from savanna to wetlands to forests. The park is home to over 600 species of birds and 95 species of mammals, including lions, elephants, hippos, buffaloes, antelopes, and more. I took a game drive in the morning and saw many animals grazing, hunting, or resting in the grasslands. I also took a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway that connects Lake Edward and Lake George. The channel is a hotspot for wildlife viewing, as many animals come to drink or cool off in the water. I saw hundreds of hippos, crocodiles, water birds, and even elephants swimming across the channel. It was a spectacular sight that made me appreciate the beauty and diversity of nature.
One of the things that impressed me the most about Uganda was its rich and vibrant culture. Uganda has over 50 ethnic groups, each with its own language, traditions, and customs. I had the opportunity to visit some of the local communities and learn about their way of life. I visited a Batwa pygmy village near Bwindi National Park and learned about their history and culture. The Batwa are the indigenous people of the forest and have lived there for thousands of years. They are hunter-gatherers who rely on the forest for food, medicine, shelter, and spiritual guidance. However, due to conservation efforts and land conflicts, they have been evicted from their ancestral lands and forced to live in poverty on the margins of society. They are trying to preserve their culture and identity while adapting to modern life. I was touched by their resilience and hospitality, as they welcomed me into their homes and showed me their skills and crafts.
I also visited a Bakonzo village near Rwenzori Mountains National Park and learned about their culture and history. The Bakonzo are the people of the mountains and have lived there for centuries. They are farmers who cultivate crops such as bananas, coffee, beans, and cassava on the slopes of the Rwenzori Mountains. They are also known for their craftsmanship and artistry, especially in weaving baskets and mats from natural materials. They have a strong sense of community and tradition, and celebrate various festivals and ceremonies throughout the year. I was invited to join them in one of their dances, which involved singing, drumming, clapping, and jumping. It was a fun and energetic way to express their joy and gratitude for life.
Travelling to Uganda was one of the best decisions I ever made. It was a rewarding and enriching experience that opened my eyes to a different world. Uganda is not only a destination for wildlife lovers, but also for culture enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and relaxation seekers. It is a country that has something for everyone, and that will surprise you with its beauty and charm. If you are looking for a good place to travel to in Africa, I highly recommend Uganda. You will not regret it.- Anonymous Traveler
